During a recent government meeting, the board discussed the North Carolina Department of Transportation's (NCDOT) proposed widening project for North Carolina 51, known as Project U 5763. The meeting featured a presentation by Brett Kniep from NCDOT, who addressed concerns regarding the potential disruption caused by a proposed continuous flow intersection at the intersection of NC 51 and John Street.

Board members expressed a general consensus against moving forward with the continuous flow intersection, citing its potential to significantly disrupt the town's infrastructure. The intersection is currently designed to accommodate between eleven and fourteen lanes, raising concerns about its impact on local traffic and aesthetics.

Kniep indicated a willingness to explore alternative solutions, suggesting a widening project from Sardis Road over the railroad bridge as a viable option. This alternative would enhance traffic flow on NC 51 without implementing the controversial continuous flow design, which some board members described as more suited for larger urban areas like Los Angeles or New York City rather than Matthews, North Carolina.

Commissioner McCool proposed a motion to pursue the widening option, acknowledging that while it may lead to reduced flow on some side streets, it would better align with the town's character and needs. The motion received a second from another commissioner, and further clarification was sought regarding the specifics of the proposal. The board's discussions reflect a commitment to balancing infrastructure improvements with the preservation of the town's community identity.